THIS WALK IS CANCELLED DUE TO THE SMOKE FROM THE WHITTIER FIRE. AN AIR QUALITY ADVISORY IS IN EFFECT FOR THE AREA. I WILL RESCHEDULE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. THANKS FOR UNDERSTANDING.

I was introduced to this beautiful coastal location by writer and hiking guide James Wapotich who says “Arroyo Hondo is considered by many to be the jewel of the Gaviota Coast.” The preserve is managed by The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County. The Arroyo Hondo Preserve features a year-round creek surrounded by coastal chaparral and grassland. It is where the Chumash village of Tuxmu was once located.

Photo by James Wapotich

We’ll start with a 2-stage carpool. First, at 8 a.m., those of us in Ojai will meet at Maricopa Plaza to carpool to 23 S. Hope Avenue in Santa Barbara where we will meet the Santa Barbara, Ventura, and other contingents. Then at 9 a.m. we’ll carpool from there about 30 minutes up the coast to Arroyo Hondo Preserve. All carpools are optional.

The plant diversity there is exceptional. In the creekside riparian habitat we’ll see a wide array of Southern California native trees including White Alder, California Bay, Blue Elderberry and Bigleaf Maple among others. The creek is also home to California Newts.

After some easy walking, identifying plants, and stopping for a lunch/snack break, we’ll plan to depart from the Preserve at 2:30 for a 3:00 p.m. arrival at the Santa Barbara carpool location.

Once you are registered you will receive an email with more information and directions to Arroyo Hondo if you prefer to meet us there at 9:30 a.m. The cost for the day is $25. There is no pre-payment required to register. Participants will receive an email afterwards with notes and a complete list of all plants and animals observed.

Hi Lanny:
Ill be coming on the Herb Walk July 15th and I hope to bring a friend.
It will be good to see you again.
By the way, Im going to a screening of Tending the Wild tonight- Kat High will be there. Wish you could come too.
See you next Saturday!
Mardi

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